I Virtual Particles: Inflation vs Present Universe

[Ranku]

Are virtual particles of the false vacuum during inflation indistinguishable from virtual particles of the true vacuum of the present universe?

 

[bapowell]

Vacuum fluctuations are the same animal in inflating and non-inflating space times. Their dynamics, however, are very different during inflation on account of exponentially expanding space.

 

[Ranku]

Thank you for your reply. Can virtual particles be considered to have inertial mass just like real particles?

 

[strangerep]

(All) virtual particles are fiction. (See various threads in the quantum forum, and also some recent insights.)

 

[bapowell]

(All) virtual particles are fiction. (See various threads in the quantum forum, and also some recent insights.)

Yes, but it does make sense to talk about vacuum fluctuations, particularly during inflation. I am trying to steer the OP in that direction.

 

[Ssnow]

Hi, regarding

false vacuum

and

true vacuum

somebody know the difference? If yes is the answer, I am curious to know ...

 

[newjerseyrunner]

A false vacuum is the local minimum, but not lowest energy state. A true vacuum is the lowest energy state, nobody knows if the universe is a true or false vacuum. This graph may help you.

 

[Ssnow]

Thanks @newjerseyrunner, yes now is clear!